Alonso's first transfer? Liverpool 'step up' interest in Leverkusen star

Tom Weber

• Updated: 19 Mar 2024 10:26 GMT
• 3 min read

Liverpool are 'ramping up' their interest in Piero Hincapie, according to a report.

The Bayer Leverkusen defender has managed to win back his place in Xabi Alonso's side after a disappointing start to the campaign on a personal level. Hincapie, one of the Bundesliga's most highly-rated young players, found himself on the outside looking in in the early goings of the season.

One of Xabi Alonso's great strengths as a coach - and one of the reasons why is he such a sought-after commodity - is that he rewards good performances. Hincapie came into the team at the beginning of the year while Odilon Kossounou and Edmond Tapsoba were at AFCON and he didn't put a foot wrong.

READ MORE: Man Utd and Liverpool ruin Arsenal plan: 'Next Odegaard' deal under threat

This has seen Hincapie keep his place in the Bundesliga-leading side. The 22-year-old's situation has improved and this has seen speculation surrounding his future go quiet in recent weeks. A fresh report, however, is now set to reignite the transfer rumours.

Liverpool step up Hincapie interest

According to HITC, Liverpool are increasing their checks on Hincapie. The Reds are long-time admirers of the Ecuador international and the transfer links with him were particularly rampant when he wasn't playing.

Liverpool have been keeping tabs on Hincapie for the best part of two years, with his ability of playing at left-back and centrally making him a very attractive option.

READ MORE: Kimmich bomb! Liverpool target names the five clubs he'd join in the summer

While some believe that Liverpool don't need a new centre-back due to the emergence of Jarrel Quansah, it seems the Reds won't leave anything to chance and will sign reinforcements in the summer.

Hincapie's coach, Xabi Alonso, is of course the Anfield club's top choice to replace Jurgen Klopp. It is not inconceivable that the Basque boss could bring some Bundesliga stars along with him to Merseyside.